Harbaugh Village: A Charming Haven of Seasonal Delights in Mullica Hill, NJ

Harbaugh Village, nestled in the heart of Mullica Hill, New Jersey, has emerged as a captivating destination for families seeking seasonal joy and community engagement. Founded by Steve Harbaugh, this enchanting village has evolved from a modest Christmas display to a year-round haven of festivities and charitable endeavors.

1. Origins and Charitable Mission

The story of Harbaugh Village began in 2018 when Steve Harbaugh decided to elevate his Christmas decorations to cinematic proportions, reminiscent of the iconic Griswold family from “Christmas Vacation.” What started as a whimsical house adorned with festive lights quickly evolved into a community-driven charitable initiative. In 2019, Harbaugh introduced a toy drive, encouraging visitors to contribute gifts to fill Cousin Eddie’s RV, a whimsical addition to the display.

The charitable mission gained momentum, and in 2020, the toy collection reached a staggering 12,000 presents, prompting Harbaugh to envision an entire village dedicated to spreading holiday cheer and goodwill. This vision culminated in the establishment of George’s House, a nonprofit arm committed to organizing and distributing the annual toy collection, as well as providing transitional housing for local families in need.

2. The North Pole Experience

Central to the charm of Harbaugh Village is “The North Pole Experience,” a delightful attraction that made its debut in the 2021 holiday season and is set to return this year. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festive spirit by visiting Santa’s workshop, crafting letters to Santa, and creating reindeer food with Santa’s elves. The enchanting experience is included in the general admission fee of $19.95, with all proceeds going directly to support George’s House.

3. Year-Round Delights

While the holiday season is undoubtedly a highlight at Harbaugh Village, the festivities extend throughout the year. Special events include the Magic Pumpkin Patch in the fall, providing a unique twist to the Halloween season. Additionally, the village hosts a variety of one-off activities, such as touch-a-truck events, ensuring there’s always something exciting on the horizon.

For those seeking memorable celebrations, Harbaugh Village offers birthday party packages, providing three hours of fun with activities ranging from skating to carousel rides and games. The village is also a picturesque setting for family photos, particularly in front of the iconic replica Griswold house.

4. Planning Your Visit

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience at Harbaugh Village, here are some essential details to keep in mind:

– Timed-entry tickets are required and can be booked online in advance.
– Tickets are non-refundable, but in case of inclement weather, alternate arrangements will be offered.
– Outside food and drink are not permitted, but the village provides a range of dining options.
– Some attractions, such as the sweets shop, ice-skating, igloo rental, and fire-pit rental, are not included in general admission.

Harbaugh Village stands as a testament to the power of community, creativity, and generosity. Whether you visit during the holiday season or partake in the year-round festivities, you’re sure to be captivated by the magic that permeates this charming village in Mullica Hill, New Jersey.

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